Salman Rehman Khan extradited from Rwanda over terror accusations
- Salman Rehman Khan, a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba, was extradited to India from Rwanda on November 29, 2024.
- He is accused of providing arms and funding to militant groups in Bengaluru and was tracked through international cooperation.
- The extradition emphasizes India's efforts to combat terrorism and bring criminals to justice.
In a significant operation led by Indian authorities, specifically the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), terrorist Salman Rehman Khan was extradited from Rwanda to India on November 29, 2024. Khan, a member of the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was accused of facilitating arms and funding to militant groups operating in Bengaluru. The case against him gained momentum when the Bengaluru Police seized various weapons, including seven pistols and four grenades, which were linked to his activities aimed at terrorism in the region. Khan's extradition was a result of extensive international coordination between Indian agencies and Interpol, particularly the Kigali bureau in Rwanda. He had been in custody under Rwandan law enforcement since late November 2024 following a thorough investigation that tracked his movements and activities in connection to the terror modules. This operation underscores the increasing collaboration between nations to combat terrorism, as Khan is recognized as a key player in the radicalization and recruitment case associated with the Bengaluru Central Prison. Following his extradition, Khan is expected to face a range of charges under Indian law, including violations of the Arms Act and the Explosive Substances Act, along with various provisions related to terrorism. The NIA has prioritized this case due to the potential threats posed by underground militant networks in India, especially in light of rising concerns surrounding funding and arms distribution linked to LeT. Khan's extradition marks a critical step in addressing these threats and preventing further acts of terror. This incident is not isolated; in November 2024 alone, the CBI has successfully extradited multiple wanted individuals implicated in criminal activities, showcasing a strategic push towards bringing fugitives to justice. With 26 extraditions thus far in 2024, the CBI's efforts are aimed at dismantling networks of criminals who threaten public safety in India. The case of Salman Rehman Khan will further direct attention to the ongoing threat of terrorism and highlight the need for continued vigilance and international cooperation in tackling such issues.